Trump Signs Order to Pay TSA Workers After Congress Fails

Executive action aims to end shutdown of air travel system

Mar. 28, 2026 at 7:38am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to pay Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees, after Congress failed to act and the shutdown of America's air travel system reached a critical point.

Why it matters

The partial government shutdown has led to staffing shortages at TSA checkpoints, causing major delays and disruptions at airports across the country. This executive action is an attempt to alleviate the crisis and keep air travel functioning.

The details

Trump's order will provide back pay to TSA workers who have been working without pay during the shutdown. The White House says the move is necessary to prevent the air travel system from grinding to a halt due to a lack of TSA personnel.

  • The partial government shutdown began on December 22, 2018.
  • Trump signed the executive order on March 27, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The 45th President of the United States.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

A federal agency responsible for security in all modes of transportation.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The executive order is expected to provide immediate relief for TSA workers, but a long-term solution will require Congress to reach a deal to end the government shutdown.

The takeaway

This executive action is a temporary fix to a larger political crisis, as the partial government shutdown continues to disrupt essential services and put public safety at risk.